Filing time: Candidates needed in Hood River and Cascade Locks

Flags Lowered: Firefighter Matthew Goodnature

Gentle reminder, for anyone who’s ever considered a run for local public office.

Aug. 25 is the final day to file for the open positions for mayor and city council in both Hood River and Cascade Locks. Applications are made at the respective city halls.

(Also up for election this fall is the Circuit Court District 7, Position 3 post; applications are done through the Oregon Secretary of State’s office.)

Serving as mayor or council member is, to be sure, a real challenge. In the case of Hood River, the two men who have thus far stepped forward to run are both long-time residents with experience serving the community in a variety of ways. But a person with little or no political experience, and limited community involvement, can still make a fine candidate. All it takes is an open mind and a willingness to handle difficult issues and the potential heat and criticism that comes with it.

On the other hand, local elected officials are serving vital roles in establishing policies and steering the futures of their communities.

The deadline is fast approaching. With multiple positions open in both communities, now is the time to step up.

Flags Lowered: Firefighter Matthew Goodnature

Gov. John Kitzhaber has ordered all flags at public institutions to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, Aug. 9, to honor Matthew Goodnature of Phoenix, Ore. The 21-year-old was off duty when he died near the Launch Fire near Fourmile Lake.

“Mathew Goodnature’s death is a reminder of the human toll that wildfires have,” Kitzhaber said. “He was a young man who was doing his part to help protect Oregon’s natural resources. As Oregonians, we honor Matthew for his dedication to public safety, and for his sacrifice. My thoughts are with his family, friend and his colleagues who continue to risk their lives to fight fires.”